How often do you find yourself wearing a fragrance to please those around you?
It’s no secret that fragrances have the power to ignite conversations and make us feel like we belong, catching the attention of others. However, we often overlook the personal benefits they bring us.
But fragrance enthusiasts are focusing more on what they call “medi-scents” of late. This refers to choosing fragrances based on how the ingredients can affect your overall well-being, for example, giving you a mood boost or helping you feel more alert, instead of merely picking one based on its smell or the appearance of its bottle.
Ahead, we share more about medi-scents, breaking it down in a simple and relatable manner along with a selection of perfumes you should bag for a scientifically-proven mood boost!
So, read up till then end as we’ve shared some of our favourite fragrances!
Benefits of medi-scents
Credit: Depositphotos
“I usually search for fragrances that have earthy or woody scents with musks or ingredients like vanilla, orange, patchouli, or lavender. I find myself more drawn to these scents, which I personally feel translate my personality better,” Beauty Writer, Cleo Yong shared.
Credit: Depositphotos
“Each perfume I own carries memories tied to a particular time period when I constantly wore that scent. Whenever I spray a specific fragrance, it transports me back to those cherished moments,” said writer, Lee Lynn.
“As most of my perfumes are acquired during my travels, they not only evoke nostalgia but also bring me immense happiness. The scents of my fragrances create a sense of joy and serve as a reminder of the wonderful experiences I had during those trips,” she added.
These scents are known to uplift your mood
The influence of fragrance should not be underestimated as it has the potential to empower individuals and evoke strong emotions.
“I have a huge collection of fragrances – some evoke good memories or help me feel happier, while others make me feel stronger or more alert,” shared Daily Vanity‘s editorial director, Kristen Juliet Soh.
Certain scents can greatly impact your mood, emphasising the importance of wearing your favourite perfumes whenever you go out. Our sense of smell is closely tied to our brain which is responsible for evoking emotions and memories.
So, here are some of the most common uplifting scents in fragrances that can actually enhance your mood and create positive experiences.
Ylang-Ylang
Credit: Depositphotos
Native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, ylang-ylang is a fragrant flower known for its exotic aroma and delicate beauty.
Ylang-ylang has been a common ingredient found in many fragrances, thanks to its benefits of attaining relaxation and combating feelings of anxiety.
If you have a special date or occasion planned, consider choosing a fragrance that features ylang-ylang such as the iconic perfume J’Adore by Dior, which incorporates the blooming essence of ylang-ylang as its initial scent.
Jasmine
Credit: Depositphotos
Apart from adding a touch of luxury and sensuality to fragrances, this sweet and delicate flower of Jasmine offers numerous benefits. It is known to help alleviate stress and anxiety, helping the body to unwind.
The jasmine flower has the ability to promote calmness and relaxation, which is why you often smell jasmine when you walk into a spa. Additionally, the fragrance of jasmine has been associated with boosting mood, evoking feelings of happiness and well-being.
The heart note of jasmine in YSL’s Libre Eau De Parfum adds a captivating floral element to the fragrance. If you’re looking for a scent that exudes elegance and sensuality, this perfume is a perfect choice to embrace your confident and free-spirited self.
Citrus
Credit: Depositphotos
Citrus notes in fragrances offer several benefits. They provide a refreshing and uplifting effect, invoking a sense of energy and revitalisation.
Citrus scents are often associated with feelings of happiness and positivity, as they have the ability to brighten your mood and create a vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, the zesty and invigorating nature of citrus can help enhance focus and concentration.
Some of the perfumes with citrus notes includes Lancôme Miracle Eau De Parfum, Giorgio Armani Acqua Di Gio Eau De Parfum as well as Versace Bright Crystal Eau De Toilette.
Vanilla
Credit: Depositphotos
The scent of vanilla has been used in some of the best fragrances in the world. Its sweet and cosy scent provides a warm and comforting aroma that can evoke feelings of relaxation and nostalgia. Plus, it has a calming effect that helps to reduce stress and anxiety.
What’s more is that the smell of vanilla tends to trigger happy memories, which can elevate the mood and promote a general sense of well-being.
The use of vanilla in Diptyque’s Eau Duelle creates a captivating fragrance. “I like vanilla when paired with pepper – this combination in Diptyque’s Eau Duelle reminds me of this ice cream from one of my favourite restaurants. It’s a comfort scent because it smells just like my comfort food,” shared Associate Editor, Jade.
The combination of these ingredients gives the perfume a smooth yet intense scent that is both exotic and intoxicating.
Bergamot
Credit: Depositphotos
The bergamot orange is a fruit that grows on a small tree called citrus bergamia. Despite its sour and bitter taste, it is widely used in perfumes for its pleasant and sweet-smelling citrus fragrance.
Bergamot, commonly used in fragrances like Jo Malone London Oud & Bergamot Cologne Intense Fragrance or the Ariana Grande Cloud offers a range of benefits. Its citrusy and refreshing scent uplifts the mood and promotes a sense of relaxation. Bergamot is also believed to have calming properties and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Pink pepper
Credit: Depositphotos
If you’re someone who’s not a fan of floral and fresh fragrances, then try to get one that has a hint of pepper scent to it. “I’ve tried a number of floral and fresh fragrances, but they don’t really do much for me. If anything it makes me feel a bit out of place.” said Jade.
Pink pepper, also known as Brazilian pepper or rose pepper, is a unique spice that is often used in fragrances for its distinct aroma. It adds a touch of warmth and spiciness to perfumes, creating an intriguing and captivating scent.
The presence of pink pepper in fragrances can bring a sense of vibrancy and energy, enhancing the overall olfactory experience. It is often used in fragrances like Kayali Sweet Diamond Pink Pepper to add freshness and an element of spice.
Patchouli
Credit: Depositphotos
This highly aromatic plant belongs to the mint family and is widely used in the fragrance industry as a base note or fixative in perfumes and other scented products.
The essential oil extracted from the leaves of the patchouli plant possesses a distinct, earthy, and musky scent that enhances the overall scent and adds complexity to the fragrance.
Patchouli is believed to have grounding and calming effects on the mind and body. The scent of patchouli is often associated with relaxation, and stress relief.
Plus, it can also create a soothing and comforting ambiance when used in fragrances.
Lavender
Credit: Depositphotos
This plant is no common herb; we’re all aware of lavender. Its fragrance holds the power to calm, uplift, and soothe our senses.
Lavender’s unique scent promotes relaxation, reduces stress, aids sleep, and elevates mood. Acting as a natural remedy, it brings tranquillity and serenity to our lives, offering relief from headaches and creating a peaceful ambiance. “I use a lavender pillow mist to help me sleep better,” shared Kristen.
Incorporating lavender fragrance into your daily routine or environment can contribute to a more peaceful and stress-free atmosphere.
Daily Vanity team’s favourite scents
We asked the Daily Vanity editorial team on their favourite scents and how those fragrances help them feel better.
Here’s what they shared with us, highlighting how each fragrances they own contributes to their overall sense of feeling better and more uplifted!
Chloé Signature Naturelle Eau de Parfum
Chloé Signature Naturelle Eau de Parfum is a fresh, floral and woody Eau De Parfum (EDP) that envelops you in a floral freshness all day long. Its organic rose essence reminds you of a serene, natural setting that soothes and awakens your spirit.
“When it comes to selecting fragrances, I have a specific criterion; I genuinely have to like the scent. Which is why my go-to fragrance will always be the Chloé Signature Naturelle Eau De Parfum,” said Lynn.
The Chloé Signature Naturelle Eau de Parfum retails for (50ml) RM488 on Sephora.
Tom Ford Rose Prick
Inspired by Tom Ford’s private rose garden, this fragrance captures the essence of a diverse bouquet of exquisite rose varieties, including Rose de Mai, Turkish, and Bulgarian roses.
With each spray, you’ll be enveloped in a captivating bouquet of roses, accentuated by the alluring notes of Turmeric Extract, Indonesian Patchouli, Sichuan Pepper, Roasted Tonka, and Tolu Balsam, creating a mesmerising and multi-dimensional olfactory experience.
“One of my favourites is the Tom Ford Rose Prick. It has a floral scent with an edge which makes me feel empowered. I like to wear it to important meetings,” Kristen shared.
The Tom Ford Rose Prick retails for (50ml) RM1630 on Sephora.
Jo Malone London Wild Bluebell
If you’re a fragrance lover, then you’re undoubtedly familiar with Jo Malone London and their unrivalled talent for creating captivating and unforgettable scents.
This floral and fresh cologne is truly enchanting, as it combines the gentle sweetness of fresh dew-kissed bluebells with the delicate fragrances of lily of the valley and eglantine.
“I like fragrances that have character and are distinctive, hence why the Jo Malone London Wild Bluebell is another favourite of mine as it uplifts my mood and “lightens” how I feel. Its floral scent is very easy on the nose and great for layering. The top note of this scent is the Bluebell and it gives me a sense of joy and renewal every time I use it,” Kristen emphasised.
A delightful addition to the mix is the succulent essence of persimmon, which adds a luscious and captivating twist, resulting in a mesmerising fragrance. “The heart note of persimmon is clean but creamy, which feels very comforting to me. I certainly reach out for it when I want an uplift of my mood or feel less stressed,” she added on.
The Jo Malone London Wild Bluebell retails for (100ml) RM635 on Sephora.
Byredo Oud Immortel
The duo Oud Immortel is created around oud, an intensely fragrant oil extracted from tree resin.
Oud holds significant cultural value due to its inclusion in traditional incense and perfumes, and its historical roots can be traced back to ancient Indian texts such as the Sanskrit Vedas, making it one of the oldest known references in the world.
“I’m partial to fragrances that are a little more genderless/unisex, so I tend to go for woodier, spicier, earthier scents. They have to have good sillage, but nothing too strong that it overwhelms the nose or takes over a room, which is why I love the Byredo Oud Immortel. The warm and intense scent of oud serves as a confidence booster for me, elevating my self-assurance and adding a touch of allure to my overall presence,” said Jade.
“The scent isn’t the only reason why I love the Byredo fragrance. The scent itself makes me happy and I feel most like myself. Plus, two of my friends wear them, so there’s that emotional connection that I love,” she added on.
The Byredo Oud Immortel retails for USD 205 (50ml) RM952.74 on Byredo.
Diptyque Eau Duelle
Credit: @scentswitharli
This one-of-a-kind fragrance is full of contrast. It combines the comforting aromas of vanilla, While revealing a captivating and intense spiciness. This fragrance leaves a lasting impression and adds a touch of allure to your presence.
“I do like Diptyque’s Eau Duelle because of its sweeter scent and dominating vanilla notes. I like wearing this on rainy days (even to bed sometimes) since it gives a cosy, comforting scent that isn’t cloying at all. Plus, it relaxes me instantly,” shared Jade.
The Diptyque Eau Duelle retails for (75ml) RM829 on KENS Apothecary.
YSL Libre Eau de Parfum
With the combinations of refreshing lavender, seductive orange blossom, and alluring musk, YSL Libre Eau de Parfum captures a captivating essence that exudes confidence and allure.
“The Libre Eau de Parfum from YSL has a combination of ingredients I like, hence why it’s one of my favourites. Other than it making me smell good, I often reach out for it because I feel like myself every time I use it,” said Cleo.
“Though not exactly floral or sweet, I wear this fragrance a lot, especially when I want to look, smell and feel a little classier and bougier. Whenever I wear this scent, it makes me feel bold and expensive. Plus, the design of the fragrance exudes a futuristic feel which I love,” said Editorial Intern, Zachary.
The YSL Libre Eau de Parfum retails for (90ml) RM645 on Sephora.
Diptyque Do Son Eau de Toilette
The Do Son Eau de Toilette by Diptyque is a fragrance that beautifully encapsulates the essence of a coastal Vietnamese garden.
“I think, for me, when it comes to fragrances, it’s more of wearing different personas. It’s very personal – just like how the scent of the fictional love potion in Harry Potter manifests differently for everyone, I believe it works the same for us in real life when it comes to fragrances. The Do Son has a sort of calming scent that feels rather therapeutic to me,” Cleo emphasised.
Do Son has the delicateness and persistence of a memory from a childhood in Indochina – the memory of a flower, between lightness and delight. With the captivating combination of tuberose, orange blossom, and marine accords, it offers a floral and aquatic experience that transports you to a serene seaside oasis.
The Diptyque Do Son Eau de Toilette retails for (50ml) RM519 on KENS Apothecary.
Ariana Grande Cloud
The Ariana Grande Cloud perfume is a fragrance that embodies her captivating and dreamy persona. With top notes of lavender, pear, and bergamot, it creates a whimsical and comforting scent experience reminiscent of fluffy clouds and sweet indulgence.
While the middle notes of whipped cream, praline, coconut, and vanilla orchid in Ariana Grande’s Cloud perfume give you a sense of indulgence, sweetness, and creamy delight, while the base notes of musk and woody notes add a touch of sensuality and warmth.
“I believe I agree more with woody or spicy scents – they just tend to make me feel more at ease and relaxed. It’s what I’d associate with calmness or something that would make me feel comfortable and right at home. The Cloud by Ariana Grande makes me feel lighter and more playful as I relate the scent as a Gen Z fragrance,” Cleo shared.
The Ariana Grande Cloud retails for RM365 on Shopee.
Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede
The Jo Malone Peony and Blush Suede is a seductive fragrance. With a blend of elegance and allure, the Peony & Blush Suede Cologne from Jo Malone London unveils a mesmerising scent experience.
Combining the soft and floral essence of peony with the luxurious and velvety aroma of blush suede, it is further enhanced by notes of red apple, jasmine, and rose, resulting in a sophisticated and captivating fragrance.
“Scents with strong peony and rose notes attract me instantly, which is why I like the Peony & Blush Suede Cologne from Jo Malone London,” said Zachary.
The Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede retails for (1ooml) RM365 on Sephora.
Carolina Herrera Good Girl Blush
With a fresh and floral explosion of contrast, Carolina Herrera Good Girl Blush is yet another fragrance that deserves the spotlight.
Its top notes of mandarin, and bergamot blend harmoniously with the heart notes of Ylang Ylang and rose. While the base notes of vanilla and tonka bean add a sense of warmth and depth, hence creating a scent that is both playful and sophisticated.
“I tend to gravitate towards rose and peony fragrances. The Good Girl Blush from Caroline Herrera has become one of my go-to fragrances. Its floral and powder notes offer me a very demure and graceful feeling. I wear it most of the time because I find it the most pleasant on the nose,” Zachary underlined.
The Carolina Herrera Good Girl Blush retails for RM627 (80ml) on Sephora.
Dior J’adore
J’adore Eau de Parfum brings together a magnificent bouquet of flowers sourced from across the globe. It combines the fruity and exotic notes of Ylang-Ylang, the gentle and velvety essence of Damascus Rose, the apricot and jam-like qualities of Jasmine Grandiflorum, the warm and inviting facets of Indian Sambac Jasmine, and the captivating beauty of Indian Tuberose.
“When selecting fragrances, I always go for something that has a sweet and fresh scent. The J’adore has a light and fresh scent, with a hint of fruitiness. It perks me up in the mornings and energises me,” shared writer, Jadee Ng.
The Dior J’adore retails for RM795 (100ml) on Sephora.
Carolina Herrera Good Girl Eau De Parfum
This evocative fragrance with notes of almond and coffee gives you a long-lasting impression. Carolina Herrera Good Girl Eau De Parfum balances the sweetness of almond with the boldness of coffee, creating a captivating and unforgettable fragrance that leaves a lasting impression.
“The inclusion of richer notes like cocoa, almond, coffee makes me feel more mature in a good way,” Jadee emphasised.
Balancing these with notes of jasmine, the fragrance gives you a hint of floral waves and truly gives you a sense of brightness and freshness. “The hints of jasmine is calming and somewhat familiar,” she added on.
The Carolina Herrera Good Girl Eau De Parfum retails for RM572.42 (80ml) on Fragrancex.
Related reads
